But not in North Carolina.

The state had the biggest increase -- 66 -- in alcohol-fueled deaths in the nation, according to figures released last week by the U.S. Department of Transportation.

In 2006, 421 people were killed in alcohol-related wrecks in North Carolina. In 2007, that number rose to 487, a 15.7 percent increase.

While the numbers don't factor in population growth, the Census Bureau estimates that the state's population grew just 2.2 percent from July 2006 to July 2007.

Drunken-driving deaths fell in 32 states, the transportation department said. They rose in Virginia, by 34, and South Carolina, by 44.

Nationwide, an estimated 12,998 people were killed in drunken-driving accidents, a decline of 3.7 percent from 2006. The department said 16 percent of those killed were passengers riding with drunken drivers, and 11 percent were in other cars.

The state Highway Patrol says it is concerned, but can't explain the increase.

"We're just not sure," said patrol spokesman Lt. Everett Clendenin. "We do believe that our educational efforts have made a difference.

"Some people have said because of the economy and people losing jobs, often people turn to alcohol," he said. "I hope that's not the case. ... Hopefully this will just be one of those unusual years."

DWI deaths involving motorcycles are also up -- which the patrol says is due to more motorcycles on the road, a trend Clendenin attributed to high fuel prices.

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